Type Confusion Vulnerability in PostgreSQL Affects Versions Before 18.5
CVE-2026-16238

8.8HIGH

Key Information:

Vendor

PostgreSQL
Status
Postgresql
Vendor
CVE Published:
13 August 2026

What is CVE-2026-16238?

A type confusion vulnerability exists in PostgreSQL's pg_restore_attribute_stats() function, potentially allowing an object creator to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the operating system user running the database. This issue arises from the conflation of range and multirange values, impacting PostgreSQL versions 18.0 to 18.4. It is crucial for users to review their deployment and apply any necessary updates to safeguard against potential exploitation.

Affected Version(s)

PostgreSQL 18 < 18.5

References

https://www.postgresql.org/support/security/CVE-2026-16238/

CVSS V3.1

Score:
8.8
Severity:
HIGH
Confidentiality:
High
Integrity:
High
Availability:
High
Attack Vector:
Network
Attack Complexity:
Low
Privileges Required:
Low
User Interaction:
None
Scope:
Unchanged

Timeline

  • Vulnerability published

  • Vulnerability Reserved

Credit

The PostgreSQL project thanks Amy Burnett (OpenAI Codex Security) for reporting this problem.
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